Hypothyroidism Specialist

Amour Medical Aesthetics, Inc

Internists & Medical Aesthetics Specialists located in Chico, CA

Diabetes is a serious disease that impacts the lives of millions of Americans. If left untreated, it can lead to blindness, nerve damage, heart disease, and even death. Fortunately, Dr. David Alonso and the practitioners at Amour Medical Aesthetics, Inc in Chico, California specialize in diagnosing and treating this chronic condition. Under their care, you can manage symptoms and regain optimal health. Call or book an appointment online today for a comprehensive diabetes screening.

Diabetes

What is diabetes?

Diabetes occurs when your cells are starved of glucose, the life-giving sugar we get from food. Although there are three kinds of diabetes, each one stems from problems with a vital hormone called insulin. Insulin acts as a kind of shuttle: It helps your cells absorb glucose.

What are the symptoms of diabetes?

As diabetes progresses, your body’s organs and systems respond with a range of warning signs:

Blurred vision

Chronic fatigue

Dry and flaky skin

Frequent need to urinate

Often feeling thirst

Tingling or numbness in hands or feet

Slow healing sores or wounds

Weight loss without dieting or exercising

What are the different kinds of diabetes?

There are three major types of diabetes:

Type 1

Your body can’t produce enough insulin because the immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This condition is usually genetic.

Type 2

Muscle cells and other tissues become insulin resistant and unable to take in enough glucose. This disease often develops in sedentary, overweight adults and children.

Gestational

Very similar to Type 2 diabetes, this form occurs during pregnancy and often resolves after the baby is born.

How is diabetes diagnosed?

When your cells can’t absorb enough glucose, the sugar has nowhere to go, so it binds to the hemoglobin in your red blood cells.

The Hemoglobin A1c test -- or A1c for short -- determines whether that's happening. Using two separate blood draws performed three months apart, the lab accurately measures your average blood sugar levels.

What kind of treatment is available for diabetes?

Your treatment will vary, depending on the type and stage of diabetes.

Type 1

Dietary modifications

Blood monitoring

Insulin injections

Type 2

Dietary modifications

Exercise programs and other lifestyle changes

Blood monitoring

Medications or insulin injections if needed

Gestational

Blood monitoring

Medications or insulin if required

Diabetes is a potentially life-threatening medical condition. However, with proper medical care and supervision, you can manage symptoms and enjoy a lifetime of good health. Call or book an appointment online for a blood screening and exam at Dr. David Alonso’s internal medicine clinic.